What are the functions and effects of Qianliguang (Senecio scandens)?
Mar 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Senecio scandens is a perennial climbing herbaceous plant belonging to the genus Senecio in the family Asteraceae. It usually has functions and effects such as expelling parasites, relieving eye diseases, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, reducing swelling and pain, and clearing heat to detoxify. However, Senecio contains various hepatotoxic alkaloids, and prolonged or excessive use may cause significant toxic side effects to the liver. Therefore, when using Senecio, it must be done under the guidance of a professional physician.
Senecio scandens is a kind of antipyretic herb, being the dried aerial part of the plant Senecio scandens of the Compositae family. It generally has functions and effects of expelling parasites, relieving eye diseases, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, reducing swelling and pain, and clearing heat and detoxifying. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Expelling Parasites
Senecio scandens has an effect of expelling parasites, especially showing good efficacy in eliminating intestinal parasites such as roundworms and pinworms. Some of its components can stimulate intestinal peristalsis, promoting the expulsion of parasites from the body while reducing damage caused by parasites to the intestines.
2. Relieving Eye Diseases
The water decoction or eye drops made from Senecio scandens are commonly used in treating eye diseases such as conjunctivitis and keratitis. It can alleviate symptoms such as redness, eye pain, and increased secretions, and also has some auxiliary effect in improving vision.
3. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Effects
Extracts of Senecio scandens have inhibitory effects on various bacteria and fungi, including common pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Therefore, it can be used in treating infectious diseases caused by these bacteria, such as skin infections and respiratory tract infections.
4. Reducing Swelling and Pain
The active ingredients in Senecio scandens can promote blood circulation and accelerate metabolism at inflamed areas, thereby achieving a swelling-reducing effect. It also has analgesic properties, providing some relief for conditions such as swelling and pain caused by trauma or rheumatoid arthritis.
5. Clearing Heat and Detoxifying
Senecio scandens is cold in nature and bitter in taste, entering the liver and lung meridians. It can clear internal heat toxins and is very effective in relieving symptoms such as fever from heat illness and sore throat with swelling. Its flavonoids, alkaloids, and other components have strong antioxidant and antiviral properties, effectively combating diseases caused by heat toxins.
However, Senecio scandens contains various hepatotoxic alkaloids, and prolonged or excessive use may cause significant toxic side effects on the liver. Therefore, when using Senecio scandens, it must be done under the guidance of a professional physician to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medication.
